JAMIE Brooks is willing to play anywhere - if it means getting back in the Oxford United first-team squad.

The 20-year-old striker has played in a variety of positions since battling back to fitness from the life-threatening Guillain-Barre Syndrome

He was put in central midfield yesterday afternoon as United's reserves lost 1-0 to Northampton's second string in a behind-closed-doors friendly.

And the former Arsenal target says that while he feels he is sharp enough to challenge for a place in the squad, he will play anywhere to prove to manager Ian Atkins that he is ready.

"I thought I played quite well today," Brooks said afterwards. "I got stronger and was a bit annoyed to come off after just 65 minutes or so - I wanted to play 90.

"I've played all over the pitch since I've been getting fitter, and while I'd prefer to play up front, if it means I'm getting games, I don't mind where I'm playing."

Brooks is back after a loan spell at Ryman League Premier Division outfit Maidenhead United, but says he could return there next week.

Brooks and Mark Rawle missed the two best chances as an Aaron Gavill goal five minutes from time condemned United to a narrow defeat at Iffley Road.

Danny Brown impressed in central midfield or the U's, but out-of-favour defender Jon Ashton was the game's outstanding player.

UNITED'S Division 3 game at home to Scunthorpe has been rearranged for Wednesday, February 11 (7.45pm).

UNITED have provisionally fixed up to play Hereford in another behind-closed-doors friendly at the Kassam Stadium on Monday.

Ian Atkins's side are playing a similar game at Derby on Saturday.